Dog at Rest by Gerrit Dou - 1650 - 16.5 x 21.6 cm Museum of Fine Arts Boston Dog at Rest by Gerrit Dou - 1650 - 16.5 x 21.6 cm Museum of Fine Arts Boston

Dog at Rest

oil on panel • 16.5 x 21.6 cm
  • Gerrit Dou - 7 April 1613 - 9 February 1675 Gerrit Dou 1650

Today we present probably one of the cutest dogs in art history! Half awake, eyes slightly open, the dog has curled up on a shelf for a nap. It nestles against a variety of household objects: an earthenware jug, a bundle of branches, a wicker basket, and a solitary slipper. The artist’s laborious depiction of the dog and its textures—soft prickled fur, wet nose, leathery paws—gives the animal life. Clearly, Dou was a real showoff. This painting is ridiculously small; it is only 16.5 x 21.6 cm (6.49 x 8.5 inches). Every object painted here demonstrates Dou’s mastery. I'm personally a cat person, but I can't resist myself, I want to cuddle this lovely doggie!

P.S. If you're a dog lover, or just an animal lover, check out the cutest pups in paintings. <3